An overtime loss in Winnipeg on February 19, 1984 is usually noted for ending the Capitals 14-game winning streak. No one knew at the time that it was the demarcation line for a new streak.After that night, the Capitals would not lose in their next 35 regular season overtime games, winning 10 and tying the rest. The streak lasted almost 3 years, until a 5-4 OT loss to the Rangers on February 7, 1987.
The final victory of the streak came on New Year’s Day 1987 against Pittsburgh. Mike Gartner, playing despite a hyperextended elbow, scored his second goal on a breakaway for the 4-3 win.
OT success involved reversing a defense-first philosophy. “We try to win in overtime,” coach Bryan Murray told AP. “A lot of teams play for the tie. We have a lot of confidence going in because of our goaltending and defense.”